Jags: Gerhart to Seize Feature Role

In 2013, Minnesota Vikings running back Toby Gerhart displayed flashes of brilliance in the short playing time he registered. In the shadows of RB Adrian Peterson, Gerhart’s touches were limited.

Now, entering his fifth year in the NFL and his first with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Gerhart will be featured as a three-down back.

Per the Florida Times-Union, offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch stated, “Toby [Gerhart] will be our workhorse… He can catch it well. He can pass protect well, and he’s going to be in the game a lot — third down, base downs, short-yardage, passing downs.”

With former Jags RB Maurice Jones-Drew now with the Oakland Raiders, the 6’0″, 234-pound former Heisman Trophy runner-up is looking to spearhead the Jags’ offense, and eventually a turnaround from their six-year slump.

The Jaguars will likely rely on Gerhart for consistency while QB Blake Bortles, the draft’s third overall pick, develops and QB Chad Henne starts.

Gerhart has the opportunity to be a star. His success will hinge on his consistency in a somewhat turbulent offense.